Creighton Study: Local Organization Has Significant Economic Impact on City

Creighton Study: Local Organization Has Significant Economic Impact on City

NeighborWorks Omaha has added millions to local economy

NeighborWorks Omaha, a nonprofit corporation that provides economic and community development services in the Omaha area, has had a significant and positive impact on the growth of north and south Omaha over the past nine years, according to an economic impact study by Creighton Economics Professor Ernie Goss.

The study, which examines the impact of NeighborWorks Omaha between 2001- 2009, indicates the program was responsible for $49.4 million in “new” spending in Omaha and had a total impact of $116.1 million on the Omaha community during that time period. “During that same time period NeighborWorks Omaha generated almost $50-million in wages and salaries and more than $11-million in state and local taxes” said Creighton University Economics Professor Ernie Goss. “Additionally, the program supported an average of 117 year-round jobs.”

Formerly known as New Community Development Corporation, NeighborWorks Omaha became a chartered member of NeighborWorks America last year.

“Our mission statement says our organization rekindles pride in neighborhoods and ignites investment in the community. This study shows that our program does that and more. We are building homes, fulfilling dreams and enhancing the community,” said Ken Lyons, president and CEO of NeighborWorks Omaha.

The program provides qualified residents of Douglas and Sarpy counties with up to $50,000 towards the purchase of a home built by NeighborWorks. It has assisted in the construction of more than $35 million in single-and multi-family housing in north and south Omaha.

One of the newest programs offered through NeighborWorks Omaha is the Lead Elimination Program (LEAP) that was funded through a $2-million U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Lead Elimination Program grant. So far the project has addressed lead issues in 94 homes and received Omaha’s Community Excellence Award for its work in reducing childhood lead poisoning.